Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Kristen Salerno

Kristen Salerno

Athol,MA

Summary

Dynamic and adaptable Senior Animal Control Officer with a proven track record at the City Of Gardner Police Department. Excelled in enhancing public safety and operational efficiency, showcasing exceptional problem-solving and empathy. Skilled in innovative patrol operations and fostering community relationships, significantly improving response times and animal welfare.

Overview

20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Animal Control Officer

Town Of Winchendon Police Department
01.2024 - 06.2024
  • Facilitated positive outcomes in difficult situations by using conflict resolution skills when interacting with agitated or uncooperative individuals during field operations.
  • Enhanced public safety by responding to and investigating reports of animal abuse, neglect, and nuisance complaints.
  • Maximized efficiency in operations by maintaining up-to-date knowledge of state and local regulations related to animal control practices.
  • Collaborated with local law enforcement agencies to enforce animal control ordinances and handle dangerous or aggressive animals.
  • Wrote reports of activities and maintained files of impoundments and dispositions of animals.
  • Handled emergency situations calmly and effectively, employing appropriate restraint techniques for various species while prioritizing public safety.
  • Conducted thorough investigations into cases of suspected animal cruelty or neglect, gathering evidence to support legal action when necessary.
  • Developed strong working relationships with veterinarians, rescue organizations, and other stakeholders within the community for improved collaboration on shared goals.

Customer Support Specialist

MacMannis Florist And Greenhouse
06.2023 - 03.2024
  • Developed strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and positive feedback.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service experiences by maintaining a positive attitude, active listening skills, and empathetic responses to customer concerns.
  • Managed a high volume of inbound calls while maintaining excellent call quality standards and adhering to established procedures.
  • Maintained customer satisfaction with forward-thinking strategies focused on addressing customer needs and resolving concerns.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complex issues promptly and professionally.
  • Provided timely assistance to customers via phone, email, and live chat channels, ensuring a high level of professionalism at all times.
  • Responded to customer calls and emails to answer questions about products and services.
  • Handled escalated support cases with diplomacy and tact, successfully defusing tense situations between the company and its customers.

Emergency Dispatcher

Woods Ambulance
07.2024 - 08.2025
  • Improved response times by prioritizing and efficiently managing emergency calls.
  • Maintained accurate records of dispatched calls and their outcomes, ensuring thorough documentation for future reference.
  • Enhanced productivity by guaranteeing timely emergency response with no service delivery issues.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in emergency communications and technology advancements.

Senior Animal Control Officer

City Of Gardner Police Department
05.2014 - 09.2022
  • Demonstrated adaptability in addressing unique challenges related to specific animal species or situations, applying problem-solving skills to reach successful resolutions.
  • Led a team of Animal Control Officers, ensuring efficient operations and high-quality service delivery.
  • Increased public safety by enforcing animal control laws and regulations.
  • Improved response times by streamlining Animal Control processes and enhancing communication between officers.
  • Effectively managed stressful situations, maintaining a calm demeanor while providing crucial support animal owners.
  • Handled challenging caller interactions professionally while remaining empathetic to individuals experiencing distress or panic during emergencies.
  • Operated telephone and radio equipment
  • Promoted a professional work environment by adhering to strict confidentiality policies and maintaining sensitive information securely.
  • Enhanced public safety by responding to and investigating reports of animal abuse, neglect, and nuisance complaints.
  • Facilitated positive outcomes in difficult situations by using conflict resolution skills when interacting with agitated or uncooperative individuals during field operations.
  • Captured domestic and wild animals.
  • Investigated and gathered information regarding animal-related complaints.
  • Managed accurate record-keeping systems for all impounded animals, ensuring timely updates and smooth communication with other departments.

Emergency Room Secretary

Heywood Hospital
10.2005 - 05.2014
  • Expedited emergency room operations by managing a high volume of phone calls, coordinating transport services, and scheduling diagnostic tests.
  • Enhanced communication between medical professionals by accurately transcribing physician orders and maintaining updated patient records.
  • Facilitated prompt response to critical situations through efficient coordination of Code Blue alerts and rapid notification of appropriate personnel.
  • Answered telephone calls to offer office information, answer questions, and direct calls to staff.
  • Preserved order in high-pressure environments by quickly assessing situations and applying appropriate protocols for resolution.
  • Maintained strict confidentiality of sensitive information, upholding ethical standards and legal regulations throughout all aspects of employment.
  • Cultivated a positive work environment through open communication channels with supervisors and peers regarding potential areas for improvement within the operation center.
  • Strengthened operational readiness by participating in regular training sessions, updating skills as necessary to meet evolving standards.
  • Reduced caller distress by remaining calm, professional, and empathetic during crisis situations.
  • Demonstrated adaptability when faced with unexpected challenges or rapidly changing situations throughout daily operations.
  • Supportive presence for distraught callers, incorporating active listening techniques to gather vital information despite emotional barriers.
  • Assisted callers in emergency situations with appropriate information and support.
  • Relayed latest information to first responders via electronic means, telephone calls, and radio responses.
  • Applied interpersonal skills in neutralizing hostile and emotionally charged situations.
  • Communicated pre-arrival instructions to emergency medical personnel, helping first responders deliver appropriate care and support to individuals.

Education

High School Diploma -

George Stevens Academy, Blue Hill, ME
  • Honor Roll all 4 years
  • Ranked Top of class
  • Honor's Society Member
  • Elected Captain of Varsity Basketball Team 4 years in a row
  • Completed AP courses
  • Relevant Coursework: College Preparatory
  • Professional Development: Small Animal Veterinary Clinic

Animal Control Officer Certification - Animal Control And Animal Welfare Laws

Boylston Massachusetts Police Academy, Boylston, MA
06.2018

Skills

    Innovative

    Problem-Solving

    Prioritization

    Critical Thinking

    Compassion and Empathy

    Works Well Under Pressure

    Patrol operations

    Report Preparation

    Patience and Tolerance

    Memory retention

    Situational Awareness

    Information Gathering

Certification

  • ACO - Certified Animal Control Officer
  • CPR Certification

Work Type

Full TimePart Time

Work Location

On-SiteRemote

Timeline

Emergency Dispatcher - Woods Ambulance
07.2024 - 08.2025
Animal Control Officer - Town Of Winchendon Police Department
01.2024 - 06.2024
Customer Support Specialist - MacMannis Florist And Greenhouse
06.2023 - 03.2024
Senior Animal Control Officer - City Of Gardner Police Department
05.2014 - 09.2022
Emergency Room Secretary - Heywood Hospital
10.2005 - 05.2014
George Stevens Academy - High School Diploma,
Boylston Massachusetts Police Academy - Animal Control Officer Certification , Animal Control And Animal Welfare Laws